Rock & Brews Site on S.R. 56 Comes Down as Portillo’s Plans Move Forward

WESLEY CHAPEL, FL - Crews have begun clearing the former Rock & Brews property along State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel at the Tampa Premium Outlets, marking the next step in a long-anticipated restaurant change near Tampa Premium Outlets. Recent activity at the site shows the building being demolished, with construction expected to follow for a new Portillo’s location. 

Rock & Brews, a rock-themed restaurant brand co-founded by members of KISS, previously operated at the busy S.R. 56 shopping corridor in the Wesley Chapel area. With the structure now coming down, the property is positioned for redevelopment. 

Portillo’s, the Chicago-based fast-casual chain, has announced plans for a Wesley Chapel area restaurant at 26000 State Road 56 W. The company says the location will feature its “Restaurant of the Future” layout, including indoor and outdoor seating, double drive-thru lanes, and dedicated pick-up and grab-and-go areas.

Portillo’s is known for Chicago-style favorites, including hot dogs, Italian beef, char-grilled burgers, salads, and dessert items like its chocolate cake. An opening date has not been publicly posted for the Wesley Chapel area restaurant.

For updates on this project and other local development, visit the Wesley Chapel Community Website and follow along on Facebook, X, and Instagram.